Winter air is as dry as it is cold. Dry air can exacerbate symptoms in those with dry eye syndrome.
The last thing you want when walking around during the winter is to have stinging eyes and blurry vision. Keep reading to learn a few tips and tricks to avoid Winter dry eye .
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
It’s important to drink plenty of water for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, your body needs hydration to survive and be healthy.
However, hydration is especially important for those experiencing dry eyes. Your tears are mostly made of water.
If your body doesn’t have access to enough water, though, tears are one of the first things to suffer. Make sure you understand exactly how much water you need throughout the day, and commit to staying hydrated.
Take A Break From the Screens
It’s sometimes challenging to get away from screens in today’s day and age. Besides the fact that most people use a computer all day for work, many people look at screens for entertainment as well.
When engaged with a screen, people tend to forget to blink. Blinking is essential for healthy eyes, as it coats them with tears.
If you can’t reduce your screen time overall, try using the 20/20/20 rule. Set a timer for 20 minutes. When it goes off, pick a spot about 20 feet away and focus on it for at least 20 seconds.
This process will allow your eyes to refresh and lubricate the surface.
Buy A Humidifier For Your House
Changing the atmosphere in your home can actually help your vision and dry eye symptoms. These days, humidifiers are a decently cheap and effortless way to add moisture to the air around you.
You can’t bring one with you everywhere you go, but having one or two at home is helpful. Keep them in the room or rooms you spend the most time in.
Your eyes and skin will thank you for it.
Use Warm Compresses For Some Fast Relief
Sometimes you need to relieve the symptoms quickly. While eye drops are an excellent way to do this, they aren’t always available.
When done correctly, a warm compress can be just as soothing.
First, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.
Then, fill a bowl with warm water. Do not add anything to this water. Make sure it isn’t too hot but just warm enough to feel with your fingertips.
Soak a clean washcloth in warm water. Ring out the excess water, and fold it horizontally, so it fits over both eyes.
Let it sit for about five minutes or until the washcloth loses its warmth.
Get Help From an Eye Care Professional
If your dry eye is consistent, you may need professional help to experience relief. Trained eye care professionals can get to the core of the issue and design treatment plans that work.
Are you experiencing symptoms of dry eye? Schedule an appointment with Stahl Eyecare Experts in Garden City, NY, today to take care of your dry eye once and for all.
